Menopause - Aibu?

You’re not even 40, don’t start worrying about it yet! I went into peri about age 46, and it was rough, mainly because of anxiety, for a few years. Once I was fully menopausal at 52, things settled down a lot. Right now (mid 50s) I’d say I’m the happiest I have ever been as an adult, mainly because I do not care what anyone else thinks of me. Everyone is different, but for me it was a bumpy, but temporary, ride :)

You need to avoid these social media posts that are giving you anxiety! I’m 45 and perimenopausal. I did get more emotional initially but have found the right HRT (patches for me, I tried the gel too) has been a game changer. I have occasional brain fog moments but I’ve learned to laugh it off, it’s annoying but no one is dying because I forget a conversation mid way or because I forgot to put chicken in my chicken pie. The night sweats are horrible, I’ve never been a sweaty person and I wake up dripping; I shower more so that deals with that. I developed acne so have changed my skin care routine.
As a poster above said, it’s another life phase. Luckily we are living in a time where we have options to help. It’s not even in the top ten worst things that have happened to me! 🤣 @Ydoapp find out about it through the NHS or other reputable source rather than social media and you’ll feel better.

It's just another life phase. Nothing to be scared of! If you start having symptoms, get referred to a menopause clinic/menopause nurse an start HRT. I'm 45 and have more energy now than in my early 20s. Peri and menopause is not a death sentence or the end of your life!

Not everyone gets symptoms. I had none

It doesn't affect everyone in severe ways. It is useful to be informed about possible symptoms as they are so varied and easily dismissed as other things. The good news is that HRT exists and can make a huge difference to your quality of life.

I think terrified is a bit extreme. Some people have no symptoms at all.

I had awful periods in my early 40's resolved by taking the mini pill (which stopped them all together).

I started with other symptoms around 50. Vaginal itching worsened and was caused by dryness. Topical vaginal oestrogen has helped.

At 53 I started to struggle with sleep, in particular cortisole spikes, anxiety, palpetations and frequent nightime urination. HRT has resolved these. I do still have some brain fog but it is better because I am sleeping better. I do feel more anxious about things (social anxiety in particular) but can usually talk myself down. There are other weird things like strange skin sensations and itching, hair loss etc. I am hoping the HRT will continue to improve these but if I get to the 6 month mark I may ask to increase my dose if I am struggling with anything.

I have not had any mood swings or anger. I am single and I feel good.

Menopause (and peri) is definitely a thing and some have it worse than others but there are things you can do/take if you get symptoms. It isn't all bad, I promise.

It affects everyone differently, but knowledge is power! And if you’re aware of the possible symptoms you can seek support and hrt etc early instead of struggling.

Try not to worry too much. I’m going through it now and have also suffered with my mental health, mainly anxiety. I’m also a single mum. Yes, my moods have suffered and I’ve been having some lows. However, as soon as I started to struggle I saw my GP and am now 2 months into HRT. Only this week my 21 year old (not particularly observant son) said to me that he thought I was in the best place emotionally he’s seen me for ages. I definitely feel more on an even keel. My advice would be, when the time comes, don’t struggle on your own there is help out there. My GP has been amazing.

Im through the menopause (surgically induced at 40), in a new relationship of a few years that started after menopause and honestly, best sex life ive ever had. I cant take HRT either due to previous cancer. Dont worry too much!

Despite everything you see online and in the media, it is not an automatic death sentence or life limiting experience.

Yep, many people have awful symptoms, but there is help available. And what you almost never read or hear about is that many women actually get through it without major trauma.

Don't believe the hype....!!

And, by then, you'll have grown up a little, too.

Yes, HRT helps.
How old are you now?